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In a landmark event aimed at raising awareness and promoting inclusivity, the Albinism Dare to Dream Initiative (ADDI) proudly announced the first-ever Mr & Miss Albinism Africa pageant, complemented by the African Diversity Festival. This historic occasion took place at the Harare Club Hotel on January 27, 2025, alongside a press briefing led by Brenda Mudzimu, the executive director of ADDI.
Mudzimu expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the attendees, including esteemed colleagues and co-organizers, for their support. The initiative seeks to empower individuals with albinism by building their confidence and self-esteem.
“The vulnerability suffered by people with albinism does not stem from any mental or physical disability, but is a result of discrimination, stigma, and social exclusion,” said Mudzimu.
The plight of people with albinism in Africa has become a pressing challenge, with many facing life-threatening situations due to societal myths and misconceptions. In particular, Tanzania has been highlighted as a country where tragic ritual killings occur, shedding light on the urgent need for awareness and advocacy.
With the successful hosting of Mr & Miss Albinism SADC from 2018 to 2023, this year’s event expands its reach across the entire African continent. The pageant aims to foster awareness, accessibility, and inclusion, creating a platform for dialogue about the challenges faced by those with albinism.
The Mr. and Miss Albinism Africa pageant and the African Diversity Festival will take place on June 28, 2025, with a boot camp for finalists beginning on June 23, 2025, under the theme “Shining in the Rainbow Africa.” The Albinism Dare to Dream Initiative (ADDI) is collaborating with various organizations, including the Sierra Leone Association for Persons with Albinism, the Association for the Welfare of Albinos in Cameroon, and Bien-Être des Albinos de Côte d’Ivoire, to host this event. The initiative seeks to advocate for the rights of persons with albinism (PWA) and raise awareness to ensure these rights are promoted, protected, fulfilled, and respected. Furthermore, the event is designed to inspire participants, helping them gain personal recognition, self-confidence, interpersonal and communication skills, stress management skills, personal grooming skills, and advocacy skills. A total of 31 contestants from 18 African countries, aged between 18 and 35, will compete for the crowns.
The accompanying African Diversity Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of culture and community, fostering communication and mutual understanding among people of diverse races, ethnic backgrounds, and beliefs. Attendees will have the opportunity to showcase African arts, designs, and crafts while dressed in traditional African attire. “This festival is not just about beauty, it is about appreciating all people and motivating them to adopt a wider perspective and fit into society,” Mudzimu emphasized.
As the first of its kind, the Mr and Miss Albinism Africa pageant, alongside the African Diversity Festival, represents a significant step towards dismantling stigma and fostering inclusivity for individuals with albinism. Through collective efforts and strong community support, the event aspires to shine a light on the brilliance and beauty of diversity across the continent.